Routine Laminate Care
Keep your laminate floors looking their best with simple routine care.
- Dust Mopping/Vacuuming: In Georgia's often dusty or pollen-heavy environment, regularly sweeping, dust-mopping, or vacuuming is crucial to remove daily grit, dirt, and allergens that can act like sandpaper on your laminate.
- Damp Mop: For a deeper clean, use a microfiber mop that is only slightly damp, along with a cleaning solution specifically formulated for laminate floors. Avoid generic floor cleaners or excessive water, which can cause swelling or warping in our humid climate.
- Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Even with water-resistant laminate, promptly blot any spills with a clean, dry cloth. Georgia's humidity means moisture can linger, making quick action essential to prevent water damage or seeping into seams.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Steer clear of ammonia-based cleaners, wax, oil-based soaps, abrasive powders, steel wool, or steam mops (unless specifically approved by your laminate manufacturer). Improper cleaning agents can cause irreparable damage.
- Clean High-Traffic Zones Frequently: Areas like entryways, kitchens, and living rooms, especially with Georgia's red clay or outdoor elements, will gather more dirt. Give these areas extra attention with more frequent dry sweeping and spot treatment.
Treating Spills & Stains on Laminate
Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are, accidents happen. Here's how to handle spills and stains:
- Treat Spills Immediately: The golden rule for any spill or stain on laminate is speed. Immediately grab a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towels and blot the spill to absorb as much liquid as possible. Rubbing can spread the stain or force it into the seams.
- Treating Common Spills: For most common food or drink spills like soda, juice, or coffee, dampen a clean cloth with warm water and a tiny drop of mild dish soap or a laminate-specific cleaner. Gently wipe the stained area to clean!
- Treating Specific Stains: For grease or oil, use a small amount of mineral spirits or a laminate-approved degreaser to a clean cloth and gently wipe. For ink, marker, or crayon, use rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) on a clean cloth and gently wipe.
- Always Test First: Before applying any cleaning solution to a visible stain, always test it first on a hidden spot of your laminate, such as in a closet or under a rug, to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage.
- Rinse & Dry Thoroughly: After treating a stain with any cleaning agent, wipe the area with a clean cloth dampened only with water to remove any cleaning residue. Then, immediately dry the area thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth.
Preventative Laminate Care & Maintenance
- Mats & Area Rugs: Place doormats at all exterior entryways to trap dirt, sand, and moisture before it reaches your laminate. In high-traffic indoor areas like hallways or under dining tables, use breathable area rugs to protect against wear and tear.
- Use Felt Pads: Attach felt or furniture glides to the legs of all furniture, chairs, and tables to prevent scratches and gouges when furniture is moved. Periodically check these pads for wear and replace them as needed, as accumulated debris can make them abrasive.
- Indoor Humidity Levels: Georgia's fluctuating humidity can impact laminate floors, leading to expansion or contraction. Aim for a consistent indoor humidity between 30% and 50% by using a dehumidifier during summer and a humidifier during drier winters.
- Pet Nails & Footwear: Keep your pets' nails trimmed short to prevent scratches. For humans, encourage removing shoes with spiked heels or cleats, as these can exert immense pressure and damage the laminate surface.
- Lift Heavy Objects: When moving heavy furniture or appliances, always lift them rather than sliding them across the laminate. If you must slide, use plywood or furniture sliders specifically designed for hard floors to distribute the weight and prevent scratches.
